ICD Code K81.0

ICD code K81.0 is used to identify and classify the medical condition known as acute cholecystitis. This condition refers to the sudden inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct. It is characterized by severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea, and requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications. This code is utilized in healthcare settings for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and billing purposes.

1. Sudden Onset of Symptoms: The patient experiences a rapid onset of abdominal pain, typically in the upper right quadrant, which may radiate to the right shoulder or back.

2. Fever: The presence of a fever, often accompanied by chills, indicating an inflammatory response.

3. Nausea and Vomiting: The patient reports persistent nausea and episodes of vomiting, which are common symptoms associated with this condition.

4. Tenderness in the Abdominal Area: Upon physical examination, there is noticeable tenderness in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, often exacerbated by deep palpation.

5. Positive Murphy's Sign: During a physical exam, the patient exhibits a positive Murphy's sign, where there is pain upon deep inhalation when the examiner's hand is placed under the rib cage.

6. Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Laboratory tests reveal leukocytosis, indicating an elevated white blood cell count, which is a marker of inflammation or infection.

7. Imaging Findings: Ultrasound or other imaging studies show signs of gallbladder inflammation, such as thickening of the gallbladder wall or the presence of gallstones.

8. Jaundice: In some cases, the patient may present with jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, due to bile duct obstruction.

9. Changes in Liver Function Tests: Abnormal liver function tests may be observed, reflecting the impact of the condition on the liver and biliary system.

10. Absence of Chronic Symptoms: The patient does not have a history of chronic gallbladder issues, distinguishing the condition as acute rather than chronic.

For the ICD code K81.0, which corresponds to acute cholecystitis, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 47562 - Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy.

2. 47563 - Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy with cholangiography.

3. 47564 - Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy with exploration of common duct.

4. 47600 - Cholecystectomy.

5. 47605 - Cholecystectomy with cholangiography.

6. 47610 - Cholecystectomy with exploration of common duct.

These CPT codes represent various surgical procedures related to the removal of the gallbladder, which is a common treatment for acute cholecystitis. Healthcare providers should select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed and any additional services rendered during the treatment.

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